Return to Play Update – April 27

Recently we provided an update about the work underway to determine a roadmap for a return to community footy.

Our intention was to provide a more detailed outline at the end of this month, following the release of a roadmap for the elite game.

Whilst we all want clarity around when the game will return to our fields, this area of work is constantly changing. The announcement by the Prime Minister yesterday that the National Cabinet will develop a guiding set of principles for sport at all levels, reinforces the extensive work we have been doing to refine our protocols and processes on how and when our respective seasons will commence.

Federal, State and Territory Governments have also indicated the possibility of easing some restrictions around mid-May, should the current low trend of infection and transmission continue. We understand the National Cabinet will review restrictions at a meeting on May 10, provided the curve is still flattening and testing rates remain high.

As a result of these developments and reviews, the timetable we will now work to has been revised.

In the week beginning May 11, there will be an announcement regarding the elite game with a proposed date for a resumption of training and return to play. An update around timings for a resumption of activities at Community level, will be provided once the roadmap for the elite competition has been announced.

Pleasingly, Governments of all levels across Australia understand the critical role and benefits of community sport, and the importance of local sport restarting and reconnecting those vital support networks that are currently stretched or not operating.

We are focused on being aligned with the advice of the New South Wales and ACT Governments and the relevant medical authorities to ensure everything we do protects the health and safety of our participants and the broader community.

We thank you for your patience, understanding and ongoing efforts as the planning continues to evolve, and we look forward to being able to provide a more definitive update to you following the planned elite game announcement in the second week of May.